Staff Writer

This being the time for giving, the American Red Cross has added a bigger blood supply to its wish list.

Today, the Red Cross will have a community blood drive from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Troy. The blood drive is being sponsored by First Baptist and First United Methodist Churches.

Tracie Colvin of the Montgomery Red Cross office, said December is the hardest time in which to make blood collections "because everyone’s so busy."

She said December is also the time blood is needed the most.

Holiday travel can result in traffic accidents, meaning an increased need for blood.

"People did give after September 11," Colvin said, adding blood has a 42-day shelf life and that time has "long since passed."

So, now, the Red Cross is asking anyone in good health who is 17 years old or older and weighs at least 110 pounds to roll up their sleeves and give the gift of life.

"We need people to step back up," Colvin said of making donations that are desperately needed.

Jane Thrash, community development specialist for the Pike County Chapter of the American Red Cross, is hoping Pike County residents take a few minutes out of their shopping or workday to give blood.

"Blood is always needed," Thrash said. "But, it’s especially important to have a supply on hand during the holiday season."

She is asking everyone to "be a part of the giving season" by giving blood.

Thrash said, in addition to accident victims, blood is needed for those who may be victims of a tornado and individuals who may need blood transfusions because of poor health.